Isn't Orthodox Judaism a form of self-segregation? Fanatical?

I work with an Orthodox jew (modern) and I feel that the observence level that he keeps is a form of self-segregation. My reason for feeling this way is that he can never fully be a part of someone's life (that would include non-observant jews as well) who does not follow his path. Two examples would be he cannot attend any functions that fall on Shabbos (weddings, funerals, birthday parties, office parties) and that he cannot eat with co-workers at non-kosher restaurants. I almost feel kind of bad for him. I truly try to see people as individuals first and I have a broad spectrum of friends. Still, how can you do this with someone who, even in the most neutral of circumstances, has to constantly remind himself and others of his religious affiliation? That he is inherently different. Isn't that a form of self-segregation? Somewhat fanatical? Again, I am speaking strictly of the Orthodox branch of Judaism and would appreciate any intelligent feedback. Thanks!

Dont feel bad for him. We jews know we are special, and the Shabbos is special. We feel good and get rewarded when following the torah, even if it means not eating with co-workers.
We (ultra orthodox) do try to segregate ourselves somewhat because we dont want to be tempted. another reason is that there are some many dirty thing out there (the language, advertisemnts, immodesty...)that we try to stay to ourselves so we will not have to witness it.

I am sure he is not doing this to segregate himself intentionally from others for social reasons. The word to describe this is not self-segregation but santification. He has made the decision that God comes first in his life, and he will follow the commandments of God to the best of his ability. His actions show his devotion and his committment..If the group really cares about him, they will make some small changes to include him...for example, can you manage to have a party on a Sunday? or a weeknight, but not shabbat? Can you have some small parites at the office whoere kosher is served so he can be included? There are kosher delis where you can order from. The food is good. If you did little things like this, I am sure he would be touched by your thoughtfulness....

God's people are set apart (holy) for Him. They are a light to the heathen world. Salvation is of the Jews.

It is Godly-segregation (if you wish).

[Note to modern Christians: God is perfect & unchanging; God's Word is perfect & unchanging; God's Law is perfect & unchanging; God's Salvation is perfect & unchanging.

True Faith + God's Grace = His Salvation

That formula worked for Abraham, the disciples & apostles, and it still works for you & me.

Follow the 100% Torah-observant Messiah, Yeshua (which means "God's Salvation") rather than following the pagan traditions of men (formalized by Emperor Constantine & the Popes - Sabbath desecration, Feasts of the Lord desecration, unclean food diet, Easter Sunday, Sunday Sabbath, Christmas, et al... are all abhorrent abominations to God. Always have been; always will be!]

In truth your right, as an orthodox Jew the commandments of the Torah do separate us at arms length from the rest of the world. The problem is you are looking at it as a bad thing. Why don鈥檛 you ask him if you could come over for a meal Friday night? And especially if he as kids you will see the warm family atmosphere that transpires at least once a week. Trust me, if he is true about his religion he will not see it as a burden but as a gift that he would not dare to part with. As for these things constantly reminding him of who he is I can鈥檛 see that as a bad thing at all. How many Christians do you know that go to church every Sunday and two hours latter you can鈥檛 tell? If any thing it鈥檚 a constant reminder to him of G-d鈥檚 presence and only strengthens his resolve. Dose this all make him fanatical? I don鈥檛 know. What I see is a man truly devoted to his Religion and people and the customs and ways of his ancestors that have lasted over 3000 years. But the one thing I can tell you about this person is that is not doing it to spite or alienate any one else he dose it he knows that it鈥檚 the right thing to do.

No offence to you or any other religion, but part of being Jewish is being different.